Texas Child Protection Law Bench Book

2024 version: As effective October 1, 2024

F. Criminal / Punitive

The nature of criminal contempt is punitive, to punish past errant behavior, and is most commonly assessed in direct contempt cases. It is an unconditional sentence for punishment or deterrence.[57] Criminal contempt proceedings for contumacious and disruptive conduct during court proceedings may be dealt with immediately by the judge, unless committed by a court officer.